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Intermot: Updates to BMW S1000 range

Published:
04 October 2016

The S1000 range has been a phenomenal success for BMW. Kicking off in 2010 with the original S1000RR, that bike has continued to evolve, keeping it at the sharpest end of the superbike sector, while then spawning the S1000R in late 2013, and the S1000XR in 2014.

While all are individually exceptional, and group test winners, they’re not beyond improvement, and that’s exactly what BMW claim they’ve done across the range for 2017.

2017 BMW S1000RR

The range-topping S1000RR is now Euro4 compliant with no loss, or gain, in performance, while gaining ABS Pro as part of the optional Riding Modes Pro suite of electronic assistance (Slick and User modes, Launch Control and a Pit Lane Limiter). The firm’s 7-level banking-sensitive DTC traction control is also now standard across the model options, removing one tick box from the order sheet.

The default seating option is now for a single seat with a seat cowl replacing the pillion perch – but if you know someone brave enough to park on the postage stamp and hold on tight, you can spec your new RR with a pillion seat and footrests as a no-cost spec option. The Race and Dynamic Packages are also still available, as are a catalogue full of other options, while all the colour options have been tweaked for 2017

2017 BMW S1000XR

The S1000XR barged its way into the adventure-sports sector with ferocity, coupling bonkers engine delivery with sportsbike handling, great luggage capabilities and superb versatility – but it wasn’t perfect. Lead amongst the criticisms from many has been the transference of high-frequency engine vibration – present on all the S1000 family – through to the rider’s hands. In some cases its barely noticeable, but at its worst it can be highly intrusive. For 2017, BMW say they’ve addressed this with new vibration-reducing handlebar mounts.

That motor, already nuts enough, is now Euro4 compliant, and in the round of nips and tucks they actually found another 5bhp lurking, so they’ve added it to the pot, making a claimed 165bhp at peak. Meanwhile, the payload has increased 10kg, and the current colour options are joined by Ocean Blue.

2017 BMW S1000R

The R gets the same vibration-reducing bar mounts and engine upgrades as the XR, while managing to lose 2kg, along with gaining the previously optional HP titanium silencer as standard for 2017. BMW say the intake has also been modified to improve airflow and deliver more induction noise.

Two riding modes (Road and Rain) and ASC (Automatic Stability Control) are now standard, as is Race ABS – while DTC is still an optional extra. The R also gets chassis upgrades from the RR, with claimed improvements in rigidity, flex, and mechanical grip.